Jodar denies contact with ball girl at French Open following viral footage

Spanish tennis player Rafael Jodar has firmly denied allegations that he pushed a ball girl during the 2026 French Open, following the circulation of a video clip that has generated significant controversy. The incident occurred on Friday, May 29, after Jodar defeated American Alex Michelsen in a five-set match at Roland-Garros. Footage from the event has since amassed over eight million views on social media, with public opinion sharply divided regarding whether physical contact was made.

During his post-match press conference, the 19-year-old stated he did not touch the ball girl. Jodar attributed her stumble to her backing away and tripping over a floor mat, rather than any action on his part. He explained that he was reaching out to his father to collect items after a toilet break and that the ball girl was walking backwards to get out of his way.

The viral video, shot from behind Jodar, shows the athlete’s hand swinging upwards as the ball girl stumbles backwards. This specific camera angle has led to debate over whether contact was made, as the ball girl is facing the lens while Jodar’s back is to the camera. Jodar insisted he would never push ball kids, acknowledging the difficulty of their role in the heat and conditions at the tournament.

Online reactions to the footage have been mixed. Some users argued that slow-motion playback shows the girl stumbling on the tarp independently, while others called for a fine and an apology from the player. Jodar’s explanation focused on the physical environment, noting that the cover behind the ball girl likely caused her fall.

Jodar advanced to his first major quarterfinal on Sunday, May 31, and is scheduled to play world No. 29 Alexander Zverev on Tuesday, June 2. PEOPLE magazine contacted the ATP for comment regarding the incident but had not received a response at the time of reporting.